Super Easy Cheesy Shrimp and Grits
Try this super easy and ready in minutes, this easy cheesy shrimp and grits recipe.
Try this super easy and ready in minutes, this easy cheesy shrimp and grits recipe.
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 cups low fat milk
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal grits
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- shrimp & sauce:
- 4 slices bacon chopped
- 1 1/2 pounds shrimp peeled & de-veined
- Carbohydrate 47.510892528701 g
- Cholesterol 333.093375246975 mg
- Fat 132.305563821214 g
- Fiber 7.23555011396147 g
- Protein 31.2349262558903 g
- Saturated Fat 67.0144530444017 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (2449g)
- Sodium 4702.56340019456 mg
- Sugar 40.2753424147395 g
- Trans Fat 10.534230754017 g
- Calories 1484 calories
Step-by-step
- PREPARE THE GRITS: In a large pot over medium heat, add the milk, water and salt. Bring to a simmer. Whisk in the grits and continue whisking until they begin to thicken. (This will help eliminate lumps.) Continue to cook the grits for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Stir in the butter and cheese. Cover and set aside.
- PREPARE THE SHRIMP & SAUCE: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel lined platter using a slotted spoon to drain. Return the skillet to the heat and add the shrimp to the pan. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side. Transfer the shrimp to a platter and keep warm.
- Add the onions to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the onions/garlic and cook for an additional minute. Whisk in the chicken stock and cook until the sauce begins to thicken. Whisk in the cream, butter, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, salt and pepper. Continue cooking until the sauce starts to thicken more. Return the shrimp to the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes- making sure not to overcook the shrimp. Stir in the bacon, green onions and parsley
- SERVE: Spoon about 1 cup grits onto a plate and top with 4 to 5 shrimp. Pour about 1 cup gravy over the shrimp. Repeat with remaining grits and shrimp. Serve immediately.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Cheesy Shrimp and Grits
Let me tell you, life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between early mornings, school runs, endless meetings, and the never-ending to-do list, finding time for a proper, home-cooked meal often feels like a luxury. But I refuse to let my family (and myself!) suffer through a diet of takeout and processed snacks. That's where recipes like this Cheesy Shrimp and Grits come in. It’s not just quick and easy, it’s also incredibly satisfying and delicious – a total game changer on busy weeknights.
I stumbled upon this recipe a few months ago, while desperately searching for something both quick and flavorful. My kids were clamoring for dinner after a long day of school activities, and I was running on fumes. This recipe was a lifesaver! It takes under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those nights when time is of the essence. The creamy grits are incredibly comforting, and the succulent shrimp, infused with a smoky bacon flavor, add a touch of elegance that makes it feel like a special treat, even though it's so incredibly simple to make.
The best part? It's incredibly versatile. I often swap out the shrimp for chicken or even sausage, depending on what's in the fridge. Sometimes, if I have a little extra time, I'll add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; you can easily customize it to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. This has become a staple in our home, a hearty and flavorful dish that always leaves us feeling satisfied and nourished, even on the busiest of days.
Beyond the ease and deliciousness, this recipe also offers a sense of accomplishment. In the midst of the chaos of motherhood, taking the time to prepare a healthy and flavorful meal for my family gives me a sense of purpose and joy. It’s a small act of love, a way to nourish both their bodies and souls. And knowing that I created something so delicious and satisfying with minimal effort is just the cherry on top. This is far from your typical weeknight meal - it's a testament to the fact that even amidst the rush, making time for a home-cooked meal is entirely achievable, and worth every minute.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of the shrimp and cheese really shines through in this dish, so it's worth investing in high-quality products.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they are pink and opaque.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the grits and the shrimp and sauce separately ahead of time and reheat them just before serving.
- Get the kids involved: This recipe is easy enough for older children to help with, making it a fun family cooking activity.
So, the next time you're short on time but craving a delicious and satisfying meal, give this Cheesy Shrimp and Grits a try. It’s a true weeknight winner, proving that even busy moms can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. And trust me, the whole family will thank you for it!
